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Electronic data interchange (EDI)

What is EDI?

Electronic data interchange (EDI) is a powerful tool for increasing office productivity and improving cash flow. The benefits of the EDI services offered by Independence Blue Cross (Independence) include:

  • Faster processing and timely error reporting for claims
  • Automated posting of claim payments
  • Real-time verification of a patient’s coverage and cost-sharing responsibility

Upcoming EDI Gateway transition

Over the next year, Independence Blue Cross will transition Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) transactions from the Highmark EDI Gateway to Smart Data Solutions (SDS) Stream Clearinghouse.

This is an initial step of our transition to a next generation platform that will help us operate more efficiently and deliver new and innovative products and services. Learn more.

If you have any questions, please email us at gateway.transition@ibx.com.

Getting started with EDI

To start conducting EDI business with Independence, please take the following steps:

  1. Get your NPI and register it with Independence.
  2. Select a trading partner or sign up as your own trading partner.
  3. Affiliate your NPI with your trading partner to enable electronic transactions.

Platform transition news

As part of our transition to a next generation platform, we are transitioning EDI transactions from the Highmark EDI Gateway to Smart Data Solutions (SDS) Stream Clearinghouse. The transition will be done in phases starting in November 2023. Our goal is to transition all Trading Partners to SDS by the end of second quarter 2024.

For existing trading partners to SDS

SDS will contact existing trading partners when it is time to begin the transition process.

For new trading partners to SDS

Visit the new Trading Partner Information Center for an overview of the registration process and to review the Trading Partner Registration Guide. You will receive a verification code from SDS when it is time to start your transition.

If you have any questions, please contact the SDS support team Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. ET at stream.support@sdata.us or 855-297-4436.

For trading partners that have not yet completed the transition

Highmark, Inc. (Highmark) currently provides the Highmark EDI Gateway to handle EDI transactions on behalf of Independence. Please use the information below for assistance until your transition to SDS is complete.

The Trading Partner Business Center is Highmark’s online resource that provides tools and documentation for conducting EDI business.

For questions related to conducting EDI business with Independence via the Highmark Gateway, please call Highmark EDI Operations at 1-800-992-0246. Highmark EDI Operations is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., ET.